Methods, systems, and computer programs are presented for managing audio files of a user to reduce latencies in play start times on local devices. The audio files are stored on cloud storage managed by a server. One method includes processing a plurality of audio files associated with a user, where the processing is configured to create audio snippet files from each of the plurality of audio files. The audio snippet files representing a beginning part of each of the plurality of audio files. The method also includes transmitting the audio snippet files to a client device and detecting a request from the client to begin playing a first audio file from the plurality of audio files of the user. The first audio file being stored on the cloud storage managed by the server.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for transmitting an audio file, comprising: producing, by a processor and from a first audio file, a second audio file, the second audio file representing a beginning portion of the first audio file, bit rate of the second audio file being a function of a count of first audio files in a library of a user of a client device; transmitting, from the processor to the client device, the second audio file; detecting, at the processor and from the client device, a signal indicating a selection of the first audio file; and transmitting, from the processor and in response to the signal, at least a remaining portion of the first audio file to the client device.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the detecting occurs after the second audio file has been transmitted to the client device.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first audio file is stored on a cloud storage server.
The invention relates to audio file management systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently storing and accessing audio files in distributed computing environments. The method involves storing a first audio file on a cloud storage server, which allows for remote access, scalability, and redundancy. The system includes a user device configured to capture audio data and transmit it to the cloud storage server, where the audio file is stored. The cloud storage server may also process the audio file, such as converting it to a different format or applying compression algorithms to optimize storage and transmission efficiency. The system further includes a second device capable of retrieving the stored audio file from the cloud storage server, enabling seamless sharing and collaboration. The method ensures secure transmission and storage by implementing encryption protocols and access controls. Additionally, the system may include metadata tagging for improved searchability and organization of audio files. The cloud-based approach enhances accessibility, allowing users to access their audio files from multiple devices and locations while maintaining data integrity and security.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the remaining portion of the first audio file has an identified transition start point, the identified transition start point being a time in the first audio file that corresponds to an end time of the second audio file.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the transmitting the second audio file occurs during a synchronization procedure with the client device.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second audio file has a set size, the set size adjustable in response to a network speed performance parameter of the client device.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the signal includes an identification of the first audio file and an identification of a playlist associated with the first audio file.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the transmitting the at least the remaining portion of the first audio file includes transmitting an additional audio file of the playlist.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the transmitting the at least the remaining portion of the first audio file includes transmitting a portion of the first audio file that corresponds to the second audio file.
10. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer code for controlling a processor to cause the processor to transmit an audio file, the computer code including instructions to cause the processor to: produce, from a first audio file, a second audio file, the second audio file representing a beginning portion of the first audio file, bit rate of the second audio file being a function of a count of first audio files in a library of a user of a client device; transmit, to the client device, the second audio file; detect, from the client device, a signal indicating a selection of the first audio file; and transmit, in response to the signal, at least a remaining portion of the first audio file to the client device.
11. An apparatus for playing an audio file, comprising: a processor configured to receive, from a server, a first audio file, the first audio file representing a beginning portion of a second audio file, to play the first audio file, to transmit, to the server, a first signal indicating a selection of the second audio file, to receive, from the at least a remaining portion of the second audio file, and to play the at least the remaining portion of the second audio file, a bit rate of the second audio file being a function of a count of first audio files in a library of a user of the apparatus; and a memory configured to store the first audio file and the at least the remaining portion of the second audio file.
12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the remaining portion of the second audio file has an identified transition start point, the identified transition start point being a time in the second audio file that corresponds to an end time of the first audio file.
This invention relates to audio processing systems designed to seamlessly transition between two audio files. The problem addressed is the need for smooth, synchronized transitions between audio segments, particularly in applications like music playback, podcast editing, or automated audio mixing. The apparatus includes a processor configured to analyze the first and second audio files to determine their respective end and start points for alignment. The transition start point in the second audio file is identified as the time that corresponds to the end time of the first audio file, ensuring continuity. The system may also include a memory for storing the audio files and a user interface for adjusting transition parameters. Additional features may involve detecting audio characteristics, such as amplitude or frequency, to refine the transition timing. The apparatus ensures that when the first audio file ends, the second audio file begins at a precisely matched point, preventing abrupt cuts or misalignment. This is particularly useful in automated audio editing workflows where manual synchronization would be impractical. The invention improves audio continuity and user experience by eliminating gaps or overlaps between consecutive audio segments.
13. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the processor is configured to receive the first audio file during a synchronizing procedure with the server.
14. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the processor is further configured to transmit, to the server, a second signal, the second signal including a network speed performance parameter of the apparatus, the network speed performance parameter usable by the server to adjust a set size of the first audio file.
15. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the first signal includes an identification of the second audio file and an identification of a playlist associated with the second audio file.
16. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the processor is further configured to receive an additional audio file of the playlist.
17. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the processor is further configured to receive the at least the remaining portion of the second audio file by receiving a portion of the second audio file that corresponds to the first audio file.
18. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the processor is configured to receive the at least the remaining portion of the second audio file during a background download operation.
This invention relates to audio processing systems, specifically for managing and processing audio files in a computing environment. The problem addressed is the efficient handling of audio data, particularly when dealing with large or multiple audio files, to optimize storage, processing, and user experience. The apparatus includes a processor configured to process a first audio file and a second audio file, where the second audio file is divided into at least a first portion and a remaining portion. The processor is further configured to process the first portion of the second audio file while the remaining portion is being received during a background download operation. This allows for seamless audio playback or processing without waiting for the entire second audio file to be fully downloaded, improving efficiency and user experience. The system may also include a memory for storing the first and second audio files, and the processor may be configured to process the first portion of the second audio file in real-time as it is received. The apparatus may further include an audio output device for playing the processed audio, ensuring that the user can listen to the audio without interruptions while the remaining portion is still being downloaded. This approach is particularly useful in streaming applications, where partial data availability is common, and ensures continuous playback or processing without delays.
19. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the processor is configured to complete reception of the at least the remaining portion of the second audio file before completion of a play of the first audio file.
20. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the processor is configured to receive the first audio file in response to at least one of a setup of an account for audio files, a change in the account, or a change in content of audio files associated with the account.
Cooperative Patent Classification codes for this invention.
August 1, 2016
September 25, 2018
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